Nasone tomato seeds

Origin and characteristics

The Nasone del Cavallino tomato is a native Veneto variety, typical of the Cavallino-Treporti area near Venice, recognised as a Traditional Agri-food Product (PAT). Its name comes from its distinctive elongated, slightly curved shape with a pointed end reminiscent of a nose ("nasone" means "big nose" in Italian). The fruits can exceed 12-13 cm in length and reach 300-400 grams in weight, with a bright red colour and a green shoulder that tends to fade at full ripeness.

The plant

The plant can reach and exceed 150 cm in height, with good vigour and productivity. Suitable for both greenhouse and open-field growing, it produces fruit with meaty, firm flesh and very few seeds, almost without a placental cavity. The flavour is sweet and delicate, with lower acidity than most other tomato varieties.

Sowing and transplanting

Sow from February to April, indoors in seedbeds or in a heated greenhouse, using a soft, fertile, well-drained and moist potting soil. Scatter the seeds or sow in rows spaced 10-15 cm apart, covering with a thin layer of soil. Keep a steady temperature of 18-20°C and water regularly with lukewarm water. Transplant once seedlings reach 10-15 cm in height with at least 4-5 true leaves.

Growing

The Nasone tomato prefers well-drained, sedimentary soils in a sunny position. Greenhouse production generally peaks between mid-June and mid-July, while open-field harvest extends into autumn. Watering should be moderate and regular, avoiding waterlogging that could affect fruit quality.

Useful tips

Given the considerable size of the fruit, it is advisable to support the plants with sturdy stakes. Seed germination is generally good, but seeds should be kept in a cool, dry place until sowing time. Balanced pruning of side shoots helps improve fruit size.

Diseases and pests

While it has no particular specific resistance to certain diseases, the Nasone del Cavallino tomato benefits from good general tomato-growing practices: crop rotation, careful irrigation and preventive treatments against the main fungal diseases such as downy mildew and alternaria.

Culinary uses

Thanks to its firm flesh and sweet, low-acid flavour, the Nasone del Cavallino tomato is perfect in salads, where it enhances simple dishes like caprese, but also sliced on warm bruschetta or baked whole with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. It is rich in vitamins A and C and minerals such as iron and calcium.

Quick facts

• Botanical name: Solanum lycopersicum
• Origin: Cavallino-Treporti (Venice), Veneto
• Sowing: February - April (seedbed)
• Harvest: June - October
• Plant height: up to 150 cm
• Fruit weight: up to 300-400 g